J.D. comes from a family of track coaches and has been around running his whole life. He started his athletic journey in high school as an aspiring multi-event athlete (hurdles, high jump, 400 meters, cross country) and returned to the sport as an adult (distance running). J.D. competes for a local run club and can be seen racing everything between track 400 meters and even the occasional ultra-marathon. As a coach, he’s passionate about helping fellow athletes get excited about the sport and make sensible plans for their goals, whatever they may be.

What Program do you coach?
Group Training

How would you describe your coaching style?
I try to be open, organized, and encouraging. Success isn't linear, so the best athletic environments are ones where athletes feel comfortable pursuing their goals on both the good days and bad. We don't always get to choose what the proverbial "running gods" are teaching us, but we do get to choose to show up and learn.

What is your proudest coaching moment?
There's nothing better than witnessing someone achieve something they didn't think was possible. Whether it's their first double-digit run, their first sub five-minute mile, or even just their first time lacing up their shoes and not hating it.

What is your favorite workout to coach and why?
The track is my happy place.

How many years have you been coaching?
2+ years

What is your favorite place to run in New York City?
Can't beat a Roosevelt Island tempo run.

What is your favorite NYRR race?
The New Balance 5th Ave Mile

What is your personal running motto?
You don't have to go fast but you do have to go.